Thumbs Down to Congressman Jim Moran for refusing to share the stage with his Republican rivals during tonights 8th District Congressional candidates debate at the Ritz Carlton hotel. Even though Morans ultimate Republican challenger has not been selected yet, Alexandrians deserve to hear an honest debate during this important election year.

Matt Danielson

Thumbs Up to the 3.3 million tourists who visit Alexandria each year. Even during the past two years, when tourism has been down nationwide, increasing numbers of people sojourned in our city. Those visitors generated $22 million in tax revenues in 2008 alone. Keep em coming!

Denise Dunbar

Thumbs Up to Morton Sherman and the ACPS School Board for acting quickly to find a replacement for outgoing T.C. Williams principle William Clendanial. New principal Suzanne Maxey and the School Board face many tough challenges in turning around this troubled institution. We wish them well.

Matt Danielson

Thumbs Up to the Alexandria City Public Schools for increasing student writing scores in 13 of 19 schools, with special kudos to Jefferson-Houston and Maury for increasing their pass rates by more than 20 percent in the past year. While the ACPS is much-maligned for failings at the high school level, these elementary school improvements are a welcome step in the right direction.